Art & Design Theory Notes

Art & Design

Introduction

  • This booklet is designed for use across Years 1, 2, and 3.
  • The content is directly related to assignments done during lessons.
  • Later years (Year 2, 3) require knowledge of earlier parts.

Course Content Breakdown

  • Year 1
    • Period 1 & 3: Parts 1, 2, 3
    • Period 2: Part 3
  • Year 2
    • Period 1 & 3: Parts 1, 2, 3
    • Period 2: Parts 4, 5
  • Year 3
    • Period 1 & 3: Parts 1-5
    • Period 2: Parts 6, 7

Part 1 - Basics

1. Representation

  • Figurative: Recognizable elements from the real world are depicted; it mirrors reality.
  • Abstract (non-figurative): No recognizable elements from the real world; only visual elements are shown.

2. Design

  • Elements:
    • Technique
    • Materials
    • Tools
    • Visual elements: Space, Shape/line, Light, Colour, Composition

Part 1 - Basics: Representation Details

Figurative Art

  • Example: Jan van Eyck's painting of a married couple (1434) shows recognizable objects like people, furniture, and a dog, representing the real world of that time.

Abstract Art

  • Example: Piet Mondrian's work (around 1920) uses only basic visual elements like mathematical shapes, lines, and basic colors to create a composition without representing the real world.

Part 1 - Basics: Design Elements

1. Technique / Appearances

  • Definition: The method of using materials and tools to create a specific look or appearance in art.
    • Example: Drawing lines with a lead pencil or painting with paint and a brush.

2. Material

  • Definition: The substances used in creating art, which can influence the final appearance.
    • Examples: Lead pencil, paint, gouache paint, acrylic paint, watercolor paint, ecoline, cardboard, paper, crayons, pastels, charcoal, etc.

3. Tools

  • Definition: Instruments used to apply materials to a support, influencing the material's final appearance.
    • Examples: Brush, ruler, pair of compasses, tortillon (blending stump), pair of scissors, palette knife, chisel.

Part 1 - Basics: Techniques and Appearances

Drawing

  • Linear: Emphasizes lines; can be a preparation or a finished work.
  • Two-dimensional (2D): Length and breadth.

Painting

  • Pictorial: Application of coloring matter onto a flat surface.
  • Focuses on tones, colors, shapes, textures, and lines.
  • Two-dimensional (2D): Length and breadth.

Photograph

  • Captures light and shadow with a camera.
  • Mainly realistic, can be cropped to be more abstract.
  • Two-dimensional (2D).

Collage

  • From the French